Prevention is
the best solution to man overboard problems. In the event that a person
does become separated from the boat, every effort must be made to return
to the victim and get him back aboard in the absolute minimum amount of
time.

The most
important preventive measure is to wear a safety harness and be securely
attached to the boat. Many victims have been lost during the short
periods of time when they were not clipped on for some reason, such as
moving in or out of the cockpit or entering or leaving the companionway.

Harnesses must
be used at night, during reduced visibility, during rough weather, or any
time that it would seem prudent. This rule must be enforced. Experience
gained while working with a harness on makes it easier to get around.

Preparation:

At the beginning
of each watch:

--Check all man
overboard gear and halyards to ensure that they are ready for immediate
use.

--The watch
captain will brief the watch section on the particular details of the man
overboard recovery procedures that will be used, considering the existing
conditions of wind, seas, and sails.

--A Personal
Flotation Device (PFD) shall be stored within easy reach of the helmsman
to be thrown to the victim.

--A swimmer and
backup shall be designated.

--Safety
harnesses will be worn and clipped on when topside at night, during heavy
weather, and any other time that a man overboard recovery would be
difficult. An inflatable PFD is attached to the harnesses.

Victim
Procedures:

Entry:

--If at all
possible, try not to enter the water face first to minimize shock to your
body.

Immediate
Action:

--Do not panic.
Remember, when in the water one's horizon is very near. The boat may
therefore seem to sail out of sight before turning around.

--Swim to the
PFD thrown from the boat and put it on or hold onto it. Conserve energy,
especially if the water is cold. Assume the heat retention position. DO
NOT SWIM AFTER THE BOAT.

--Don't shout as
this will be a useless expense of energy.

--Employ any
survival equipment. Conserve energy and make yourself noticeable.

By
daylight, ensure your brightest clothing is above water.

Get your
whistle ready for use.

At night or
in low visibility, perform the above plus deploy your personal strobe so
it can be seen. Splashing the water can make you more visible.

--When help
arrives be alert for the deployment of the retrieval line. Attach the
line to your harness, PFD, or around your chest and under your arms.
Await further instructions from the boat.

Do not remove
clothing or foul weather gear. Both provide vital insulation and can
provide buoyancy. Boots or shoes can be removed if necessary to swim.
Heat and energy conservation is extremely important to a man overboard
victim.